Our Families

Our families are the core of our mission.

They come from different socioeconomic backgrounds, ethnicities, and religions, but all have one thing in common:

a father, mother, or spouse who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

Although we can never replace their family members, with your help, we can build a better future for these families and reassure them that they are not alone.  Take a moment to learn more about some of our families:

Read Some Family Testimonials

Caitlin Leavey  (Daughter of FDNY Lt. Joseph Leavey, EOW 9/11/2001) shares her story about losing her father in the September 11th attacks and what Answer the Call means to her family.

 

Lisa Tuozzolo, widow of NYPD Sergeant Paul Tuozzolo, shares the story of losing her husband in the line of duty in 2016, raising their sons, and Sgt. Tuozzolo’s legacy.

 

Mark Messier introduces FDNY EMT Robert Szendrey, who speaks about losing his stepfather (FDNY Firefighter Raymond York) in the September 11th attacks and his stepfather’s lasting impact.

 

Sara Jayne Blackmore Speech, daughter of FDNY Fallen Hero James Blackmore, speaking at the 2019 Answer the Call Gala.

NYPD Cadet, Francesca Mosomillo, speaks about her father, fallen NYPD PO Anthony Mosomillo.

 

James Dowdell, son of FDNY Lieutenant Kevin Dowdell who died in the line of duty on 9/11/01, speaks about growing up with the support of the New York Police and Fire Widows’ and Children’s Benefit Fund and why he was inspired to follow in his fathers footsteps and become a member of the FDNY as well.

 

Daniella Giammona, daughter of FDNY Captain Vincent Giammona who died in the line of duty on 9/11/01, speaks about growing up with the support of the New York Police and Fire Widows’ and Children’s Benefit Fund. She is surprised with a special announcement at the end of her speech.

 

Brielle Bellew reading a letter to her father, John, who sacrificed his life in the line of duty.

 

Alexis Stewart shares memories of her father, Dillon,  who sacrificed his life in the line of duty.